Diet Intervention for Human Microbiome Health
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how different foods affect the bacteria in the gut, known as the microbiome. Participants will consume meals provided by a commercial meal service for one week. Researchers aim to identify which components of the microbiome change with these specific meals. Individuals who can read and speak English, are comfortable using an electronic food diary, and have not recently undergone cancer treatment or taken antibiotics might be suitable candidates.
As an unphased study, this trial offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research on diet and gut health.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you have taken antibiotics or certain medical treatments recently, you may not be eligible to participate.
What prior data suggests that this diet intervention is safe?
Research has shown that food can quickly change the bacteria in the stomach, known as the gut microbiome. One study found that even a single fast food meal can rapidly alter these bacteria. Another study discovered that increasing fiber intake for two weeks can also change the gut microbiome. These changes are usually safe, but effects can vary among individuals. In this trial, participants will eat meals provided by a commercial service for one week. These diets are generally safe for most people and help researchers understand how food impacts gut health.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike traditional treatments for gut health that often involve supplements or medications, this approach uses food provided by a commercial meal service to potentially enhance the human microbiome. Researchers are excited because this method focuses on the natural impact of diet on gut bacteria, offering a more holistic and accessible way to improve microbiome health. By directly altering daily food intake, this intervention could provide insights into how specific dietary patterns influence gut health, possibly leading to personalized dietary recommendations.
What evidence suggests that this diet intervention is effective for microbiome health?
Research has shown that dietary changes can quickly impact the gut microbiome, the group of helpful bacteria in the stomach and intestines. One study found that even a single fast food meal can rapidly alter these gut bacteria. Other studies have discovered that meal plans rich in plant-based foods can improve the types of bacteria in the gut. These positive changes can enhance overall health. In this trial, participants will receive meals from a commercial service for a week, which might also offer similar benefits by positively changing the gut microbiome.13678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jacques Izard, PhD
Principal Investigator
Univeristy of Nebraska-Lincoln
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking individuals who can consent to participate, use an electronic food diary, and eat meals provided by the study. They must have a US address. It's not for those on parenteral nutrition or with allergies to shellfish, insects, carmine, dragon fruit (pitaya), or cacti; anyone treated for cancer or given antibiotics in the last month; or those who've had certain x-rays or bowel preparations recently.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Food Intervention
Participants receive food from a commercial meal service provider to monitor microbiome changes
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for microbiome composition changes after the food intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Food provided from a commercial meal service provider for a week
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Nebraska Lincoln
Lead Sponsor